Th17 cells and psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common autoimmune disease and mainly affects skin, joints, or both. Psoriasis is also a chronic relapsing disorder that can cause physical and psychological burdens to patients. Currently it is widely accepted that the immune system is involved in the development of psoriasis. Th17 cells, a subtype of CD4+ T lymphocytes, are characterized by its ability to secrete proinflammatory cytokine IL-17. Recent studies indicate that Th17 cells play a predominant role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and other immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Moreover, targeted therapies have been developed and approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. This review summarizes the role of Th17 cells in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and several therapeutic biologics targeting this pathway in psoriasis. Key words: T-lymphocytes, helper-inducer; Interleukin-17; Psoriasis/ET/TH; Review